Darlington’s East Mount Park is to be given a new lease of life following a successful bid for a share of £3.75m Pocket Parks Plus funding.
Groundwork NE & Cumbria is working with Central Community Partnership and Darlington Borough Council to refurbish the park and green space to make it more user friendly after securing £25,000 of Pocket Park funding and £7,500 match-funding from the council.
The park is an under-valued green space, which is currently used primarily as a short-cut. It is hoped the funds can be used to help increase footfall to the area and improve safety. New trees will be planted and the park refurbishment will also include new play equipment.
“The refurbishment will reinvigorate the green corridor on the edge of the town centre and encourage longer usage from residents of all ages but mostly families and be recognised as a valued asset to the community,” said Natalie Whitworth, Community Project Manager for Groundwork.
Councillor Paul Howell, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure and the local environment added: “We’re delighted to be working with Groundwork and the Park East Partnership to help revamp East Mount Park.
“Our green spaces help make Darlington the attractive pleasant place that it is and we’re keen to work with local residents and organisations to maintain and enhance our local environment for all to enjoy.”
Neil Campling, secretary for Central Community Partnership, said: “Green spaces are an important part of Darlington and we’re working together to try to create a better East Mount Park that the local community can appreciate and enjoy.”
Before work begins Groundwork NE & Cumbria is keen to hear the views of the general public, users of the park and local residents. If you would like to share your opinion of the park please follow the link https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6M3X686 or alternatively contact Natalie Whitworth at Groundwork (see details below).
A launch event will be held in August followed by other community events throughout September, October and November, providing opportunities for residents and business to be involved in shaping the changes in the park. Activities will include bird box making, a family Halloween event and bulb planting. Please get in touch with Natalie Whitworth if you would like to be involved.
Anyone interested in taking part should contact Natalie Whitworth at Groundwork on 01325 464270 or email natalie.whitworth@groundwork.org.uk for more information.